Marian Elliott

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marian Elliott, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who passed away on March 31, 2026, at the age of 81. Born Marian Kay Caston on May 13, 1944, in Decatur, Indiana, she was the daughter of Earl and Alta May Caston. Marian's early years were spent in Decatur, where she grew up in a large family and developed a love for learning that would shape her life. After graduating from Monmouth High School in 1962, she pursued her passion for education at Ball State University, earning her undergraduate degree in 1966, and later obtaining a Master’s degree in Education from Butler University. Marian spent her career teaching in both preschools and elementary schools in Pennsylvania and Indiana. She particularly enjoyed teaching Indiana History to her 4th-grade students. Marian's classroom was a place of encouragement and discovery, where every child felt valued. In 1991, Marian met George Elliott, and the two married in 1997. Marian and George shared 23 joy-filled years together before George's passing in 2014. Marian was a devoted and caring role model to her children, Chris (Julie) Vyverberg and Nicole (Craig) Kelker, as well as her grandchildren, James, Will, Charlie, and Daylen Kelker, who will forever treasure her memory. Marian also leaves behind George's children: John (Karen) Elliott, Mollianne (Russell) Cameron, Jane (Eric) Nichols, and David (Malinda) Elliott, and grandchildren: George (Jenn) Elliott, Katie Elliott, Jessie Elliott, Cavan Cameron, Clara Cameron, Olivia Nichols, Ava Nichols, Matthew Elliott, and Katelynn Elliott. Additionally, she is survived by her siblings: Claudia Schnepf, Sheila (John) August, Deborah (Greg) Cook, and Karen (Kirk) Shallcross; sisters-in-law, Bonnie Caston and Susie Sogard; brother-in-law, DuWayne (Kathy) Herman, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss her dearly. Marian was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Alta May Caston; her husband, George Elliott; her siblings, David Caston, Calvin Caston, and Bonnie Herman; her brother-in-law, Jack Sogard; and her dear granddaughter, Audra Nichols. Marian was raised in Zion Lutheran Church in Decatur and later became an active member of First United Methodist Church in Noblesville, Indiana. Her commitment to service extended beyond her church communities, as she was actively involved with the Junior League of Indianapolis, The Apple Store at Conner Prairie, and Tri Kappa, contributing her time and talents to numerous charitable causes through these organizations. Marian found joy in gardening, boating, reading, long walks with friends, the symphony, art galleries, and travel - especially time spent at the home she and George shared in Sedona, Arizona. To those who knew her, she was a steady presence: a good listener, a kind friend, and someone whose empathy and compassion knew no bounds. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Marian’s life at a service to be held on May 11, 2026, at 1:30 PM at Zion Lutheran Church, 1010 W. Monroe Street, Decatur, Indiana. Visitation will take place during a luncheon at the church immediately following the service. All friends and family are encouraged to stay and attend. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/nicolekelker/in-memory-of-marian-c--elliott) or Zion Lutheran Church.